This week, September 24 and 25, 2015, is 3id ilkabir or 3id al aD7a (meaning feast of the sacrifice). For Muslims, this holiday remembers the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his first born son in obedience to God. It also marks the end of the 7ajj to Mecca.

The day before, families who can afford it, sacrifice a sheep and the meat is used by the family and given to relatives and the poor to be used for the holiday meal.

The first day begins with morning prayers, Salat al 3id, and then going from the mosque to visit the graves of loved ones who have passed away. After that, families get dressed up and have a meal together and visit other relatives. Sweets are given and kids often times receive money from relatives as gifts.

The second day is another day to visit relatives and friends. If you are wanting to visit someone this second day would be best and you typically won’t want to stay too long since they also will be busy with visits. Here are a few Arabic phrases to use during this holiday starting out from the easiest to say and moving to more advanced.

yin3aad 3layk (3laykei/3laykon)
(ينعاد عليك (عليكِ/عليكُن
This is a general, but essential, way to wish someone a happy holiday for any holiday and religion.

AD7a mbaarak
أضحى مبارك
Have a blessed aD7a

yin3aad 3aleykon bil kheyr wil hana
ينعاد عليكن بالخير والهنا
May you live many celebrations in abundance and joy